2025-08-01
If you're thinking about a career in networking or IT, chances are you've encountered the term CCNA. But what exactly is it? Moreover, how can it benefit you and kickstart your career? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the CCNA certification to help you make an informed decision and set your professional journey in motion.
To start with, CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. As an entry-level information technology (IT) certification, it’s offered globally by Cisco, the leader in networking hardware and systems. Therefore, the CCNA demonstrates your fundamental knowledge and abilities in networking, which is why it’s widely recognized as the industry’s gold standard entry point for aspiring IT professionals.
You might be wondering, why should you consider the CCNA among the sea of IT certifications? Firstly, the CCNA provides industry recognition. By validating your skills in Cisco products, you become highly sought after by employers. Furthermore, holding a CCNA certification can open doors to more advanced certifications and higher-paying roles, such as CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) as you progress in your career.
In addition, the curriculum is constantly updated to reflect new technologies like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and automation, ensuring your skills remain relevant in the ever-changing tech landscape.
The current CCNA exam is called 200-301 CCNA, and it encompasses a broad yet crucial range of topics designed to prepare you for real-world networking scenarios. The main knowledge domains and their weightings are:
Network Fundamentals (20%): Basic network concepts, the OSI and TCP/IP models, IP addressing, and subnetting.
Network Access (20%): VLANs, wireless networking, Layer 2 concepts, and protocol troubleshooting.
IP Connectivity (25%): Routing protocols like OSPF, static/dynamic routes, and troubleshooting connectivity issues.
IP Services (10%): DHCP, DNS, NAT, and quality of service.
Security Fundamentals (15%): Network threats, firewalls, secure device access, and policy concepts.
Automation & Programmability (10%): Network automation, SDN, APIs, and basic programmability.
As you move from one topic to another, you’ll notice how interconnected these domains are. Indeed, the exam not only tests theoretical understanding but also expects you to apply knowledge to solve networking challenges on the spot.
When you decide to take the CCNA certification exam, you’ll register for a proctored test through Pearson VUE. The format typically includes around 120 questions, covering everything from multiple-choice to scenario-based questions and simulations. You’ll have 120 minutes to showcase your abilities, and a passing score is generally between 800 and 850 out of 1,000.
One great advantage of the CCNA is that there are no formal prerequisites. While Cisco recommends having some hands-on experience with computer networks, anyone with dedication and the right study plan can attempt the exam. Consequently, this makes it especially valuable for newcomers in IT or those looking to change careers.
Australia’s IT industry is dynamic and expanding rapidly, with robust demand for skilled networking professionals. While the CCNA is a globally recognized certification, it also holds particular relevance in Australia’s market. Many Australian enterprises, including government agencies, managed service providers, telecommunications companies, and large corporates heavily rely on Cisco infrastructure. Therefore, having a CCNA certification can give candidates a notable advantage when seeking roles in these organizations.
Moreover, Australian tech hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane showcase consistent demand for networking professionals, with many job listings specifically requiring or preferring CCNA qualifications. Entry-level network engineers with CCNA certification commonly command salaries ranging from approximately A$65,000 to upwards of A$150,000 depending on experience, role, and location. Senior professionals in advanced networking roles can earn significantly more.
Additionally, the CCNA provides a foundation to build upon with local educational providers offering tailored training that aligns with employer expectations. When combined with practical skills and complementary expertise in areas like cloud computing or cybersecurity, CCNA-certified professionals are well-positioned to thrive in Australia’s competitive IT environment.
Extratech offers Cisco CCNA training courses designed to prepare candidates effectively for the certification exam.
Preparing for the CCNA requires methodical study and a balanced approach. First, begin by creating a study plan that fits your learning style and daily routine. Break down the topics by domain, allocate specific time slots, and set SMART goals for each session. Moreover, diversify your learning with books, video tutorials, practice exams, and hands-on labs using simulators like Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3.
Active learning—such as making flashcards, summarizing tricky concepts, and explaining topics to peers proves incredibly effective. Additionally, regular practice using online quizzes and mock exams will help you identify weak areas and build your test-taking confidence.
Finally, don’t neglect practical experience. Labs and real-life networking projects are crucial, bridging the gap between theory and application. Extratech provides practical Cisco CCNA training programs that blend theory and hands-on experience!
Earning a CCNA certification can transform your career prospects. Here’s why it’s highly regarded:
Global Recognition: CCNA is acknowledged around the world, unlocking career opportunities in various countries and industries.
Skill Validation: It proves your expertise in both Cisco and core networking concepts, setting you apart from non-certified candidates.
Career Advancement: With CCNA, you become eligible for promotions, leadership roles, and can pave the way toward more specialized certifications.
Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals often command better salaries compared to their non-certified peers.
Professional Network: The process introduces you to a rich community of professionals, mentors, and experts passionate about networking.
Once you achieve your CCNA, a variety of roles will become accessible to you. Common positions include:
Network Engineer
Network Administrator
System Administrator
Technical Support Engineer
Help Desk Technician
As you gain experience or pursue higher certifications, career growth accelerates, potentially leading you to more senior or specialized roles in security, wireless networking, or cloud infrastructure. Importantly, salaries are quite competitive, with entry-level positions offering substantial pay and career advancement opportunities over time.
Given the unstoppable growth of digital networks and Cisco’s dominance in the hardware market, the CCNA remains a wise investment for IT professionals. In fact, as companies rely even more on secure, stable, and scalable networks, the need for networking expertise is stronger than ever.
Additionally, as you build on your CCNA, coupling it with skills in scripting, cloud computing, or cybersecurity can make you even more valuable in the job market. Employers increasingly seek candidates with a blend of hands-on network skills, automation know-how, and security awareness.
Some CCNA candidates find topics like subnetting and IPv6 addressing especially challenging. To overcome these hurdles, practice regularly and seek out free resources such as community forums, YouTube tutorials, and simulation platforms. Consistent practice and real-world applications can make even the toughest concepts manageable.
Start with a Plan: Set clear objectives and track your progress.
Mix Theory & Practice: Study with books and videos while regularly configuring devices on virtual labs.
Take Practice Exams: Use mock tests to familiarize yourself with question formats and identify weak areas.
Stay Consistent: Short, daily study sessions are better than long, infrequent ones.
Join Study Groups: Collaborating with others can clarify doubts and boost motivation.
Review and Revise: Make time for revision, especially in the final weeks before your exam.
In summary, the CCNA certification serves as a launching pad for IT and networking careers, recognized for its depth, practicality, and industry value. By pursuing this certification, you equip yourself with relevant skills, gain global recognition, and open doors to a dynamic and rewarding career.
Now is the perfect time to take this important step—whether you're breaking into IT or leveling up your existing skills. By choosing the CCNA, you’re investing in a future-proof foundation for your career in networking, wherever you are—including in Australia’s thriving IT sector.
Ready to start your CCNA journey? With the right approach offered by Extratech, your dedication and thirst for learning, you can join the ranks of successful networking professionals who have launched their careers with this essential certification.
Absolutely! Extratech’s 12-week Cloud, Network, and System Support Training is specifically crafted to prepare you for leading IT certification exams, including the Cisco CCNA, as well as CompTIA A+, Network+, and Microsoft Azure. The curriculum is aligned with official exam blueprints, so every lesson, hands-on lab, and mock test closely matches what you’ll face during certification exams. Throughout your learning journey, you’ll memorize theory and also build practical skills through simulated environments and real networking scenarios, particularly those related to Cisco technologies. Seasoned instructors break down complex networking concepts into accessible modules, provide targeted revision guides, and offer one-on-one mentoring to boost your confidence with CCNA as well as other certifications. Since these credentials, especially the Cisco CCNA, are globally respected, you’ll have proof of your abilities to launch or advance your IT Helpdesk or networking career.
Yes, and it goes far beyond basic job search tips! Extratech’s program integrates a comprehensive career development component, offering:
Personalized resume and cover letter assistance, powered by AI tools
LinkedIn profile optimization for greater visibility
Strategic job search planning, including tailoring resumes for Cisco networking roles
Interview preparation for both technical and behavioral questions, such as CCNA-focused topics
Guidance in professional business communication
This holistic support ensures you’re not only technically prepared, particularly for Cisco networking careers, but also fully job-market ready.
No previous IT experience is required. Extratech’s training caters to absolute beginners, starting with foundational concepts and gradually building up to more advanced networking topics, including CCNA exam material. The structured, supportive learning environment ensures that even those new to the field can confidently acquire practical networking knowledge and skills needed to pursue your passion in the world of IT.
Upon completing the program, you’ll be ready to sit for several globally respected certifications, including:
Earning the CCNA through Extratech validates your practical networking abilities and instantly increases your value to IT employers worldwide.
Beginner-friendly: No prior IT experience needed.
Job-ready in 12 weeks: Focused, efficient curriculum tailored to certifications like CCNA.
Flexible learning: Online, in-person, and hybrid options.
Hands-on training: Work with real networking systems and support tickets, specifically using Cisco equipment and tools.
Industry alignment: Content matches Cisco, Microsoft, and CompTIA standards, including up-to-date CCNA blueprints.
Expert instruction: Led by seasoned professionals with Cisco networking expertise, such as Binod Kunwar.
Career coaching: Personalized support for resumes, LinkedIn, and interviews, helpful for Cisco and broader IT roles.
Mock interviews: Build confidence with realistic practice, including Cisco CCNA-style questions.
Ongoing job search support: Assistance continues until you’re employed in your target field.
AI-powered tools: Optimize applications and job searches for networking roles.
Exposure to enterprise tools: Train with Cisco platforms, VMware, Hyper-V, Azure, Windows Server, and Exchange.
Ticketing Systems: Gain experience with Zendesk, KACE, and more.
Guided mentorship: Continuous support throughout your journey, including networking-specific guidance.
Accessible payment plans: Flexible options to suit your needs.
On-demand materials: Revisit lessons anytime, including core CCNA modules.
Community Impact: Your enrolment supports projects like the development of Extratech’s Oval International Cricket Stadium in Nepal.
Small class sizes: Receive personalized attention from instructors skilled in Cisco technologies.
Post-course guidance: Support and guidance even after you graduate, including CCNA career pathways!
Future-proof career: Enter a sector growing over 17% annually.
This comprehensive approach ensures you’re expertly prepared and positioned for long-term success. Whether you’re starting from scratch or seeking to deepen your skills in Cisco networking with a CCNA, Extratech’s training is your complete pathway to a rewarding and resilient IT career.
Extratech is an all-around Managed Service Provider (MSP), and purveyor of ICT Education, offering customized & personalized IT and digital performance, management, and education services. We provide the best Accounting & IT Training Courses and Certifications in Australia, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.